Stephen Ministry

What is Stephen Ministry?

Stephen Ministry is a one-on-one confidential ministry by trained caring members of the congregation of First Presbyterian Church to persons going through a challenging time. Stephen Ministers meet with their care receivers, and provide a caring confidential relationship that offers listening, prayer and spiritual and emotional support.

Paul writes, “Bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2

The Stephen Ministry at First Presbyterian is one important way we seek to live out this scriptural call by becoming minister of God’s love and care to one another.

Who are Stephen Ministers?

Stephen Ministers have the gifts of compassion, listening and prayer. They receive extensive training to equip them to enter into caring and confidential relationships with persons going through a difficult time such as illness, loss of a loved one, divorce or job loss. Following training, Stephen Ministers are commissioned by the church and enter into active, caring ministry. They work in consultation with the pastors and receive ongoing education and supervision.

If you Need a Stephen Minister

If you feel a need in your life that could be met by the Christian caring of a supportive Stephen Minister, you may call Sandra Randleman, 298-9509 or srandleman@fpcnashville.org, and request to be matched with a Stephen Minister whose experience and skills meet your needs. The only individuals who will know about your connection with the Stephen Ministry are you and your Stephen Minister.

If You Want to Become a Stephen Minister

If you feel a desire to become a Stephen Minister, a caring Christian who can support members of your congregation in need, you may apply to enter the next training program.

Stephen Ministers:

Complete 50 hours of training

Are committed to meeting with a care receiver, usually once a week

Attend supervision meetings every two weeks

Commit to two years of service to the congregation as a Stephen Minister